Black Bean Pesto

Ingredients

Amount		Ingredient	Preparation
8	ounces	black beans	dried
1	x	water
1	each	bay leaf
1	each	ham hock
2	each	jalapeno peppers	seeded
2	cloves	garlic
1	bunch	cilantro	stems only
1	x	salt and black pepper	freshly ground, to taste

Directions

1. Rinse and drain the beans thoroughly. Place them in a large
saucepan or soup kettle, and add all the remaining ingredients.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1-1/2 hours.

2. Remove and discard the ham hock and bay leaf. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bean mixture, in batches, to the bowl of a food processor.

Process, adding cooking liquid as necessary to form a smooth, thick paste. You will use a total of about 1 cup liquid.

3. Transfer the pesto to a bowl and stir in the salt and pepper, if needed.

Refrigerate, covered, until ready to use.

This will keep in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.

Makes 3 cups.

These beans make a hot and spicy spread.
Black Bean pesto can also be heated through and served as a side dish, garnished with sour cream and cilantro.